Friday, June 10, 2016

The first issue of my new comics series, Merry Men (featuring the gorgeous artwork of Jackie Lewis and colorist Marissa Louise) goes on sale this week. It’s a retelling of the Robin Hood legend, based on the premise that he was a sexual outlaw rather than a brigand—that the crew in Sherwood Forest were less a band of thieves than a band of lovers. It’s based on scholarly speculation, and on the observation by Thomas Hahn that "Whatever people think Robin Hood is, Robin Hood is." I think the concept has tremendous resonance for us today, in a cultural landscape that accommodates both the Occupy and marriage-equality movements.

I’ve long nourished a love of history and historical fiction, and this is my first chance to plunge into that deep well of story and metaphor. I’m having the time of my life, and I hope you’ll join me. If you do…let me know what you think. I’d love to trigger a dialogue with this book.

Praise for Merry Men:

"It is my great pleasure to bring you this review, because this comic blows past all sorts of social norms and boundaries…Not only does the comic have queer characters, there are also POC, bisexual and transgender characters. And it’s glorious." Critical Threat Comics & Games

"Whether or not the original tales of Robin Hood actually have such roots, this is a perfect 21st century take that works as both a slash fiction romp and an appropriate allegory for the legislative and religious battles the LGBTQ community faces today.” Mental Floss

"A dynamic new telling of the Robin Hood legend, peppered with humanity, heart, and men kissing each other. Fun stuff!" Eric Shanower (Age of Bronze)

"Merry Men transcends its high concept and is an impressively researched and compellingly delivered alternative take on the familiar Robin Hood legend. An intense, dangerous world with a modern twist, this is a book to savor." Marc Andreyko (Manhunter, Batwoman)

"Merry Men deftly weaves queer themes into Robin Hood's counterculture mythos, creating a very sexy and relevant take on the hero we all grew up with." Ed Luce (Wuvable Oaf)